BIKEPACKING ESSENTIALS AND BIKEPACKING ROUTES UK

bikepacking essentials
Cyclists

3 min read

Bikepacking is simple. Load up your bike, point it at a trail and crack on. The best trips are usually the ones where you’ve kept things light by only taking the bikepacking essentials.

Bikepacking essentials you’ll need:

  • shelter (tent or tarp)
  • sleeping bag and mat
  • water and a way to carry it
  • food and a stove if needed
  • basic repair kit
  • spare tube and pump
  • weatherproof layers
  • lights and navigation
  • GT85

You’re miles from the nearest bike shop, which is where one can of GT85 earns its place. Just make room for one more bikepacking essential – your lube, the lavender smelling one – so you can:

Lube

– Chain
– Derailleurs
– Gear cables
– Brake cables
– Brake pivots
– Pedal springs and mechanisms
– Cleats and clipless pedals
– Shifter mechanisms
– Suspension pivots
– Kickstand pivots
– Any stiff or squeaky moving parts

Clean

– Road grime
– Mud
– Dirt
– Dust
– Old lube build-up
– Water or moisture
– Drivetrain residue
– Grease deposits
– Surface contamination on metal components

Protect

– Frame
– Chain
– Cassette
– Chainrings
– Derailleurs
– Gear cables
– Brake cables
– Bolts and fasteners
– Spokes
– Pedals
– Metal suspension components
– Exposed metal surfaces
– Any part exposed to rain, mud or wet riding conditions

One can does it all.

 

BIKEPACKING ROUTES UK RIDERS SHOULD TRY

Once you’ve sorted your gear, it’s time to decide where you’re heading. Luckily, there are plenty of quality bikepacking routes UK riders can tackle. Pick one of the top bikepacking routes and get pedalling.

  1. THE CANTII WAY
    Starting and finishing in Wye, this loop takes in the best of Kent, combining quiet lanes, bridleways, coastal paths and countryside. Riders pass through Canterbury, Whitstable, Dover and Folkestone, with plenty of opportunities to stop. Although you lot don’t need a beginner route, it’s certainly one to help blow off the cobwebs.
  2. THE KING ALFRED’S WAY
    One of the most popular bikepacking routes UK cyclists ride today. This 350km loop links ancient tracks, bridleways and quiet roads through southern England. Expect rolling hills, chalk trails and plenty of history. It’s tough in places but manageable for riders with a reasonable fitness level.
  3. THE CAIRNGORMS LOOP
    If you want proper wilderness, head north. The Cairngorms Loop delivers remote tracks, huge scenery and long stretches without seeing much civilisation. Weather can change quickly, so have your kit dialled in before setting off.
  4. THE WEST KERNOW WAY
    Cornwall might be famous for surfing, but it’s also home to one of the most enjoyable bikepacking routes UK riders can explore. The route mixes rugged coastlines, mining heritage and quiet country lanes. There are plenty of places to stop for food, making it a solid option for riders who prefer comfort over suffering.

MORE ABOUT GT85

Pack the bikepacking essentials, travel light and keep your bike in great nick. A can of GT85 takes care of lubing, cleaning and protecting in one hit, so you can make more room for other stuff. Get your lavender smelling lube from our Amazon shop – happy bikepacking.